The word "boodles" is an interesting one as it defies the regular spelling rules. It is pronounced as /ˈbuːdəlz/ where the "oo" represents a long "u" sound, followed by a "d" sound and then an "lz" ending. This spelling can be confusing, as the "oo" combination is usually pronounced as in "moon", but in this case, it has a different sound. "Boodles" means a large amount of money or wealth, often used in informal contexts, and it is believed to originate from the Dutch word "boedel" meaning "estate".
Boodles is a colloquial term that can have a few different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Primarily, boodles is often used to refer to a large amount of money or wealth. It is commonly associated with slang terminology that originated in the early 19th century. In this sense, boodles can be used to describe a significant sum of money or wealth, especially when it is gained through illegal or dishonest means.
Moreover, boodles can also refer to a type of card game. The game of boodles is a gambling card game that originated in England in the 18th century. It is typically played by two to four players using a standard deck of cards. It involves bidding, trump cards, and tricks, similar to other popular card games like poker. The objective of boodles is to either win or avoid winning certain hands or cards in order to score points and ultimately win the game.
In a different context, boodles can also be used as a slang term for jewelry or accessories, particularly those that are stylish or expensive. This usage is more common in certain regions and may not be universally understood.
Overall, boodles is a multi-faceted term that can refer to significant amounts of money or wealth, a specific card game, or stylish accessories, depending on the context in which it is used.
The word "boodles" has an uncertain etymology, with multiple theories and origins suggested.
One theory proposes that "boodles" comes from the obsolete English word "buddle", meaning to win at cards or to deceive. The term "boodles" could have derived from this older term, with the addition of the suffix "-le".
Another theory suggests that "boodles" is derived from Dutch. The Dutch word "boedel" means property, fortune, or possessions. It is speculated that this term was borrowed into English and transformed into "boodle" or "boodles" to refer to money or goods acquired illegally or dishonestly.
Additionally, "boodle" has been associated with American slang since the mid-19th century, specifically referring to ill-gotten gains, bribe money, or stolen loot.